Zoe writes:
"3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 3:2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted"
Has there been a moment before when the Government has dictated our next actions, our seasons, so minutely? The dates I hold in my head are the dates of each easing of lockdown. From 17th May the rule of six moves indoors, and perhaps from 21st June all restrictions will be lifted. Finally we will move back to "a time to embrace" after our long "time to refrain from embracing".
These dates are cemented more clearly in my head than friends' birthdays or celebrations. Indeed, birthdays and celebrations have moved to be in line with lockdown easing so that a greater celebration can take place.
Whether lockdown has been a fallow period, or a time for creativity, it will (please God) soon be over.
This is both exciting and scary. Just as the transition from normal life to lockdown made the country anxious, the journey back might have more positive consequences, but it's not without fear. After over a year of minimal stimulation, crowded shops, bustling streets and noisy restaurants will take some getting used to. Let us be kind to ourselves, re-entering the world gently.
There is a new season approaching - hopefully it'll be full of joy and reunion.
Wishing you Shabbat Shalom,
Zoe